May 7, 2022

Powermatic 3520c

Overview

The Powermatic 3520C wood turning lathe is the industry standard. It is the fourth evolution of the time-honored lathe with numerous new and improved features. Wood turners appreciate the 3520C’s sliding headstock, the electronically adjustable speed with low and high-speed ranges, spindle lock, digital RPM readout, and self-ejecting laser etched quill. A portable magnetic control box that you can place within any reach, changeable riser blocks for height adjustments of 6 inches or more, and cast iron construction that almost eliminates vibration are among the new features.

The 3520C, Powermatic’s best-selling lathe, comes with a complimentary anti-fatigue mat and a unique LED light. Additional features include a sliding hammer knockout rod with a brass tip, an intuitive spindle lock design, an electronic indexing readout, an anti-rotation tailstock key for maximum efficacy, and a set of dead centers that keep the spindle for visual comparison. It also includes a two-position mount for the optional bed extension and many dead centers with a spindle for visual comparison.

Powermatic 3520c on a white background

Features

The magnetic control box is mounted on the lathe and provides easy access to the controls. The digital spindle speed and indexing readouts are concentrated, making power switches easily accessible.

This lathe allows for advanced turnings with 36 inches of working distance within centers and a 20-inch swing over the bed. The precision-ground bed allows the tailstock and tool rest to move freely without snagging. It includes an improved banjo with a pinch-style clamp to make your workplace safer than before.

The Powermatic 3520C Wood Lathe features a self-locating, ergonomic spindle lock that is simple to operate with one hand. Dead centers hold the spindle in place while you inspect it, and a sliding hammer knockout rod with a brass tip is also present. Acme threads also facilitate smooth turning for more significant results and durability.

The lathe may be extended by 20 inches, increasing its capacity to 56 inches (between centers) and enabling outboard turning of massive objects. The tool’s optional bed extension mount can be angled in two directions.

The Powermatic 3520C Lathe is CSA Certified and supported by a 5-year warranty.

Additional features

  • This product’s control box is moveable, giving users the most flexibility possible.
  • This device’s main power switch is present on the headstock.
  • The lathe’s other features complement the unique self-locating ergonomic spindle lock design for effortless, one-handed operation.
  • The improved banjo features a pinch-style clamp that is non-marring for secure tool rest insertion.
  • The enlarged spindle nose allows for easier workpiece access.
  • It contains adjustable riser blocks that may be adjusted up to 6 inches in height, providing maximum comfort for taller users.
  • An Anti-rotation key and Acme threads come with the tailstock for smoother operation and longer life.
  • Digital Indexing Readout streamlines the indexing process while ensuring precision.
  • VFD is completely encased for maximum user safety.
  • It has a low-speed capability of 15 RPM.
  • The weight of the Powermatic 3520C Wood Lathe is 726 lbs (814 lbs with bed extension), which ensures enhanced stability.
  • The 3520C has a 35-inch between-center distance.
  • A safety shield is optional.

Pros

  • It contains adjustable riser blocks that may be adjusted up to 6 inches in height, providing maximum comfort for taller users.
  • Because of its tailstock, it provides a smoother operation and longer life.
  • It includes a moveable control box for maximum flexibility.
  • It includes an improved banjo with a pinch-style clamp to make your workplace safer than before.
  • A robust motor drives the machine.
  • It is appropriate for both personal and professional use.
  • It has adequate space to accommodate very massive projects.

Cons

  • It is not ideal for novice users
  • It is very pricey
  • It is enormous requiring a lot of space   

Uses

This wood lathe is ideal for use in both home and commercial workshops. It is perfect for advanced users who require a robust, high-quality tool capable of handling any project. Skilled users will be able to justify the price and effectively use this lathe. If you are not aiming to create a home company or work full-time in this industry, you may want to avoid this wood lathe.

Motor

If you need to work with larger pieces of wood, this is the most satisfactory solution for you. The machine has a powerful engine that can move huge chunks of wood at speeds ranging from high to low enough to create exquisite designs on the wood. This lathe’s 2 HP single-phase 220-volt motor can handle heavy and off-balance workpieces. Its electronic variable speed motor has a low-speed range of 15 to 1,200 RPM and a high-speed range of 40 to 3,200 RPM. 15 RPM is ideal for fine work, while 3,200 RPM is ideal for larger projects.

Composition

The Powermatic 3520C is 96 pounds heavier than its predecessor, the 3520B, at 725 pounds. This lathe’s headstock, tailstock, and legs are all built of heavy-duty iron, resulting in a steady work surface with minimal vibration. Riser blocks allow the Powermatic to be adjusted in height, ensuring maximum comfort while woodturning your preferred projects.

Warranty

Powermatic offers a 5-year warranty on the lathe. Subject to the limitations, this warranty covers any flaws in craft or materials. This guarantee does not cover failures caused by usage, abuse, carelessness, accidents, normal wear and tear, improper repair, alterations, or lack of maintenance, either directly or indirectly. Woodworking machinery from Powermatic is only suitable for working with wood. Acrylics and other natural items made expressly for wood turning are exceptions. The warranty may be void if these devices process metal, polymers, or other materials.

Verdict

This machine is ideal for all types of projects for a serious woodworker. And this could be what you’ve been looking for if you appreciate creatively working with your hands. The Powermatic 3520C Wood Lathe is a top-of-the-line, high-powered, high-quality tool for advanced users. It’s a fantastic power tool that can handle even the most difficult tasks, and this is a well-designed, well-thought-out lathe that demonstrates its evolution throughout time. It’s the most fantastic non-boutique lathe on the market in many aspects. 

This machine should be at the top of your list if you’re searching for a device that can get the job done. The Powermatic 3520C is an excellent choice for serious woodworkers. It has outstanding functionality and a modern appearance, making it easy to use and ideal for various applications! If you require the market, this lathe should be at the top of your list. It’s simple to see why so many people have been speaking positively about how solid and high-quality this machine is when considering its features and benefits.

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